Exploring social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn, amongst others to collect Real-World Evidence (RWE) is set to take the healthcare industry by storm. Being perceived as a rapid, inexpensive way of assembling vast amounts of data reporting patients’ real experiences of treatment, including drug efficacy, safety and societal impact, is attracting pharma giants to this source. However, its seemingly unedited constructs might not seem like a logical place to put one’s trust. Dr. Dee Amanze in this blog explores the pros and cons of using Social Media Data as a RWE.
In the not too distant past, healthcare was delivered and evaluated by an elite group of doctors and other professionals as the patients quietly accepted whatever the treatment options and outcomes were. Today, the industry is rapidly evolving towards a consumer base of informed, engaged and empowered patients. Social media has also become a platform where large numbers of patients can freely express themselves, uninhibited and uncensored. Whether this new trend of patients freely expressing themselves in social media has any benefits in Real World Evidence (RWE) depends on what perspectives from which one is looking at the situation. One thing is certain though – the trend is very likely to grow exponentially in the near future.


Mark Glover, of University of Wyoming College of Law, has made available for download his article, “Incremental Change in Wills Adjudication,” published in49 Florida State University Law Review (forthcoming). The abstract is as follows:
Probate courts must decide which wills are valid and which are not. The traditional law provides courts a straightforward process to make these decisions. If the court determines that a will complies with certain formalities, then the will is valid, but if the court determines that a will does not comply, then it is invalid. This decision-making process has been criticized for being overly formalistic. While the traditional law is relatively easy to apply, it places greater importance on the process by which a testator executes a will than on the substance of the testator’s intent. Consequently, the traditional wills adjudication process invalidates noncompliant wills that are authentic expressions of testators’ intended estate plans.
This criticism has led to major reforms being incorporated into the Uniform Probate Code that are designed to make the wills adjudication process more accurate in distinguishing authentic wills from inauthentic wills. Although no state has fully adopted the UPC’s comprehensive reform package, few states still cling wholeheartedly to the traditional law. Instead, policymakers in many states have implemented changes that take incremental steps away from the traditional law’s formalistic approach to wills adjudication.
While the preference of state policymakers for incremental change, rather than for comprehensive reform, is clear, questions remain regarding the merits of these more modest approaches to reform. This Article seeks to better understand why state policymakers might favor partial rather than wholesale change to the wills adjudication process. More importantly, it analyzes whether some incremental changes are preferable to others. Ultimately, by providing a better understanding of the merits and possibilities of incremental change, this Article provides guidance to state policymakers who are wary of comprehensive reform.
To see the full article, click: “Incremental Change in Wills Adjudication” by Mark Glover.
Posted by Bella Hoang, Managing Associate Editor, Wealth Strategies Journal.


Personeelslijst Tine Huyse
Biologie
Invertebraten
Invertebraten
Beschrijving
Cruz-Laufer, A., Pariselle, A., Jorissen, M., Muterezi Bukinga, F., Al Assadi, A., Van Steenberge, M., Koblmüller, S., Smeets, K., Huyse, T., Artois, T. & Vanhove, M. 2022. ‘Somewhere I belong: phylogeny and morphological evolution in a species-rich lineage of ectoparasitic flatworms infecting cichlid fishes’.
Cladistics. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/cla.12506. I.F. 5.2.
Article in a scientific Journal / Article in a Journal
A substantial portion of biodiversity has evolved through adaptive radiation. However, the effects of explosive speciation on species interactions remain poorly understood. Metazoan parasites infecting radiating host lineages could improve our knowledge because of their intimate host relationships. Yet limited molecular, phenotypic and ecological data discourage multivariate analyses of evolutionary patterns and encourage the use of discrete characters. Here, we assemble new molecular, morphological and host range data widely inferred from a species-rich lineage of parasites (Cichlidogyrus, Platyhelminthes: Monogenea) infecting cichlid fishes to address data scarcity. We infer a multimarker (28S/18S rDNA, ITS1, COI mtDNA) phylogeny of 58 of 137 species and characterize major lineages through synapomorphies inferred from mapping morphological characters. We predict the phylogenetic position of species without DNA data through shared character states, a morphological phylogenetic analysis, and a classification analysis with support vector machines. Based on these predictions and a cluster analysis, we assess the systematic informativeness of continuous characters, search for continuous equivalents for discrete characters, and suggest new characters for morphological traits not analysed to date. We also model the attachment/reproductive organ and host range evolution using the data for 136 of 137 described species and multivariate phylogenetic comparative methods (PCMs). We show that discrete characters not only can mask phylogenetic signals, but also are key for characterizing species groups. Regarding the attachment organ morphology, a divergent evolutionary regime for at least one lineage was detected and a limited morphological variation indicates host and environmental parameters affecting its evolution. However, moderate success in predicting phylogenetic positions, and a low systematic informativeness and high multicollinearity of morphological characters call for a revaluation of characters included in species characterizations.


Power Points
This week I'm saying
hello from the upper coast of Oregon. I've been inland for so long I had a need to see and be near the ocean. I'm still giddy over the fact that I have my car back and I loaded up and headed to a friend's house. They are perched on a steep hill overlooking Yaquina Bay. I can hear the "barking" of sea lions in the evening and it's the time of year when flocks of geese are flying south overhead. Add a couple of Corgis into the mix and I'm feeling delighted. Where are you or where would you like to be?
The Seed this week asked a question:
"Where do you have points of power in your life?Think about it. You might be surprised how many you have."
Often when I come up with a Seed, I have some thoughts somewhere in the back of my mind. I'll send off two or three quotes at a time to my assistant as they "hit" me and sometimes we'll have several waiting to be brought front and center on any random Monday. After I've sent them to her, I never know when they'll show up again and I'll have to expand on one of them for The Bloom.
This week I wasn't sure at all what I would write so I decided to take my own advice and "think about it". This is where I ended up.
There's power in accountability. If I decide I need to make a change that will improve my well-being or perhaps help someone else, after I make the commitment I need to follow through. That's a power point.
When I dwell in possibility, I'm holding powerful thoughts. Everything is created twice. We have to imagine or think of something before we can bring it into existence. That's a power point.
Words have power and when I carefully choose them, I can have an effect, sometimes profound, on others. Also, the words that I say to myself can serve to uplift or tear me down. That's a power point.
Having inner peace is being in a position of power. When we project that groundedness and calmness, we help others around us get more centered. That's a power point.
Knowing that I have a choice in every situation is powerful. Some choices are easier than others, but there's always the potential for "something else". That's a power point.
Conscious breathing is a powerful tool. If I'm feeling stressed, a few deep breaths can work wonders. That's a power point.
Gratitude can turn almost any troubling situation around. There's a reason we're encouraged to adopt an
attitude of gratitude-- it's healing. That's a power point.
I'm curious what you can come up with. Feel free to check in and share with me. Too often we can be convinced by the news or social media that we have no power. It's not true. I invite you to step into your personal power. It's not about bullying or defeating someone. It's about claiming your own inner strength and bringing it into the world because it's so needed! This is what I wish for you. Are you feeling like the world has you down? Please contact me -- I know we can start figuring this out in a complementary Discovery Session. I'm waiting to hear from you!
Sparkles and Love,


The article “R.J. Reynolds protests Dole assessment plan” (Aug. 25) suggests that North Carolina Citizens for a Sound Economy (CSE) endorses the proposed buyout of the federal tobacco quota. However, CSE, a grassroots organization that advocates lower taxes, less government and more freedom, does not endorse the buyout.
Chuck Fuller, who is quoted in the story as a founding director of North Carolina CSE, is no longer affiliated with the organization. He is currently a political consultant. While he and some of his clients may endorse the proposal, CSE does not support the proposal, or its $13 billion price tag.
The plan has the federal government buying back quota rights, which currently permit farmers to grow certain quantities of tobacco. The money would be paid out over six years, and the amount received would be based on 2002 quota levels. The money would be collected from cigarette manufacturers, who would get this money from consumers by raising prices, as they did to cover the $246 billion settlement of 1998.
While some may prefer not to call it a tax, from the consumer’s perspective it would be hard to distinguish the higher price from a tax.
The plan calls for the elimination of government-set price guarantees, which CSE does support. Currently, farmers are paid for their tobacco based on rates set by Department of Agriculture predictions rather than market prices. This, along with quotas, distorts the tobacco market, creates a disjuncture between supply and demand, makes it difficult for American tobacco to compete with foreign product, and has created the current problems tobacco growers are facing.
The justification for buying quotas back, rather than just doing away with them, is that they are valuable. However, quotas are valuable only because without them, farmers are not allowed to produce tobacco.
It would cost the government nothing to simply do away with the quotas and let competition sort out who gets to produce how much tobacco.
Paul Beckner is president and CEO of Citizens for a Sound Economy, 1900 M St. NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20036.


Opioid withdrawal Clinical features of opioid withdrawal
Opioid withdrawal involves a constellation of symptoms, typically several of the following at the same time:
psychological symptoms, such as dysphoria, cravings, insomnia and fatigue flu-like physical symptoms, such as myalgias, chills, nausea and diarrhea. Objective signs of withdrawal
Objective signs of withdrawal are usually not present except on sudden cessation of high doses of potent opioids such as heroin or parenteral hydromorphone. These signs include:
agitation, restlessness tearing, yawning, runny nose vomiting sweating, piloerection (goosebumps) tachycardia, hypertension. Symptoms begin about six to 24 hours after last use, peak in two to three days and largely resolve in five to 10 days. Cravings, insomnia and dysphoria can last for weeks or months. Risks associated with opioid withdrawal
Unlike alcohol withdrawal, opioid withdrawal does not cause seizures, arrhythmias, delirium or psychosis. However, it does pose other significant risks:
Women who are pregnant and who go into withdrawal are at risk of miscarriage (first trimester) or premature labour (third trimester). Neonates born to women who are physically dependent on opioids sometimes experience prolonged withdrawal that requires treatment with morphine to prevent complications such as seizures. Patients are at risk of suicide during withdrawal, particularly if it is sudden, untreated and forced (e.g., in a prison). Due to loss of tolerance, patients who have gone through withdrawal are at high risk of overdose if they relapse to their previous dose after one or two weeks of abstinence. Treating opioid withdrawal
Treating withdrawal is an essential first step in the treatment of opioid addiction. Patients with severe physical dependence often continue to use high doses of opioids, primarily to avoid withdrawal symptoms. However, treatment of withdrawal in itself rarely leads to long-term recovery. Withdrawal management should almost always be combined with opioid agonist maintenance treatment and formal addiction treatment.
Withdrawal should be avoided in pregnant women who are dependent on opioids. The safest treatment is long-term methadone or buprenorphine maintenance under the care of a specialized centre (e.g., the T-CUP program at Toronto's St. Joseph's Health Centre, or Fir Square in Vancouver).
If a woman insists on tapering and discontinuing opioids, the relatively safest time is during the second trimester.
Prescribing clonidine to manage withdrawal
It is thought that clonidine acts by central inhibition of the hyper-noradrenergic state that occurs in opioid withdrawal.
Follow these safety precautions when prescribing clonidine to manage withdrawal:
Use clonidine with caution in patients with pre-existing heart disease or those who are on antihypertensives. Caution patients about the risk of dizziness/syncope, and advise them to avoid driving or using the bathtub until they know how they will tolerate the dose. Warn patients about the risks of overusing clonidine. Let them know that if they stay on clonidine for longer than two consecutive weeks they will need to taper off the medication because abrupt discontinuation may lead to rebound hypertension. Prescribing buprenorphine-naloxone to manage withdrawal
Buprenorphine-naloxone (Suboxone), a partial mu opioid agonist, is more effective than clonidine and other treatments in relieving withdrawal symptoms and retaining patients in treatment (Amato et al., 2004; Blondell et al., 2007; Brigham et al., 2007; Caldiero et al., 2006; Gowing et al., 2002).
Note that managing withdrawal with buprenorphine-naloxone constitutes off-label use in Canada (the official indication is for maintenance therapy).
Buprenorphine binds more tightly than other opioids to the mu opioid receptors. If the patient takes buprenorphine while other opioids are still on board, buprenorphine will displace the other opioids from the receptors, triggering rapid onset of withdrawal.Precipitated withdrawal
To avoid precipitated withdrawal, the patient should take buprenorphine only after the physician is reasonably certain that other opioids have left the system; in other words:
It has been at least 12 hourssince the patient took an immediate-release opioid, 24 hourssince the patient took a controlled release opioidor threesince the patient took days methadone. The patient is in moderate withdrawal(definite withdrawal, not mild or borderline). Moderate withdrawal can be determined by history and exam or with a standardized scale such as the COWS (Clinical Opioid Withdrawal Scale). A score of 13 or more on the COWS indicates that the patient is in withdrawal and may safely be given the first dose of buprenorphine.


Do you know why wearing an N95 mask is essential nowadays? Numerous people prefer to stay at home, avoid close proximity on the street and change their regular habits in different ways that we have not imagined. However, we should adopt a new way of living that involves wearing an N95 mask when we are out in pubic to decrease contamination risk.
The CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) in the U.S. advises that individuals wear a mask in the public and around people, particularly those who do not live in the household or where social distancing is challenging to follow. Wearing an N95 face mask regularly can be a new habit, but it is essential to decrease the virus's spread.
Why Wearing an N95 Mask is Extremely Significant?
You may have a question in mind, "If I am not at COVID-19 risk, why should I wear an N95 face mask?" The reason behind it is that the virus can spread through three ways, i.e., talking, sneezing, or coughing. The infected individual can release dangerous particles into the air, leading to health hazards.
Additionally, we can touch our face, mouth, nose, or eyes; that's why you can use hand sanitizer along with a face mask to kill bacteria from hands and keep yourself entirely protected. If a healthy person wears an N95 mask, the COVID-19 carrier has the least probability of transmission.
How Much Protection N95 Face Mask Offer Against Bacterial Contaminants?
Along with preventive measures such as hand washing and social distancing, N95 masks can help protect you and numerous people around you. There are different types of masks available; every one has its own set of protection, specifications, and functions.
The N95 face masks are intended to filter >95% airborne particles (small and large substances) to reduce the spread of viral and bacterial contaminants. This respirator is perfect for a minimum 95% of filtration efficiency, designed to prevent harmful agents including PM2.5 particulates and bio-aerosols. You can purchase an N95 face mask to protect against fumes, pollutants, respiratory droplets, and more.
The Verdict: Wear a face mask and follow all the preventive measure; you can help reduce the risk of viruses and protect yourself.
Wear an N95 mask, maintain social distancing, and Stay Safe!


Published 20 Sep,2020 via The Nation - Worried about the challenges besetting women in business, the Association for Nigerian Women Business Network (ANWBN), a coalition of over 50 different women associations across the country, has stepped up efforts to address this.
In a statement by the body, the coalition which is set to host over 30,000 guests to the first-ever Nigerian Women Business Virtual Summit (NWBS 2020) from 29th September – 1st October 2020, hopes to gather key stakeholders from across the world to address business challenges faced by women.
Besides, the summit will serve as a platform to launch the updated Women National Business Agenda and also galvanise action towards addressing the five identified key challenges faced by women who do business in Nigeria.
Renowned international and national speakers/panelists drawn from the public and private sector as well as civil society, will converge to discuss and proffer solutions to issues like lack of access to finance, gender inequality, insecurity, poor infrastructure and inadequate power.
As a network, the coalition work on total empowerment for women, building leadership skills, access to credit, patronage of Made in Nigeria Goods as well as creating a gender friendly environment for women.
ANWBN serves as the apex (private sector) body committed to mitigating the challenges faced by women pursuing business and career growth and has a combined membership of over four million women entrepreneurs.
Copyright © 2020 Vintage Press Limited. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
DISCLAIMER: This content is provided to us “as is” and unedited by an external third party provider. We cannot attest to or guarantee the accuracy of information provided in this article from the external third party provider. We do not endorse any views or opinions included in this article.


Attaining wellbeing: from surviving to engaging opportunities and hopes.
Refugee claimants struggle with language and cultural barriers that prevent them from accessing healthcare, educational, and community resources and programs that help them attain wellbeing. Kinbrace provides accompaniment to 30-40 refugee claimants each year to find and access appropriate resources for their needs and interests.


Polycarbonate is a clear thermoplastic containing carbonate groups in its chemical structure. It is one of the most widely used engineering thermoplastics due to its excellent impact strength, its optical clarity and its wide working temperature range.
Polycarbonate is chosen for applications where strength and impact resistance are of key importance yet the material has to be lightweight, when transparency is needed and when a non-conductive material with good electrical insulation is a requirement.
Brett Martin’s Marlon range encompasses flat polycarbonate sheet, corrugated sheet and multiwall sheet for glazing, roofing and fabrication.
Polycarbonate is composed of bisphenol A connected by carbonate-linkages in its backbone chain. Bisphenol A contributes to polycarbonate’s strength and also its inability to crystallise.
Polycarbonate pellets are melted and then shaped by either extrusion or moulding.
Extrusion
Molten polycarbonate is passed through a die then cooled rapidly to form it into sheets.
Melted polycarbonate is pressed into a mould to shape it for the final product. The melt is then cooled inside the mould. This process is ideal for specific parts such as automotive and computer parts.
Moulding High strength making it resistant to impact and fracture High heat resistance, making it ideal for applications that require sterilisation Good dimensional stability which permits it to retain its shape in a range of conditions Good electrical insulation properties Biologically inert and readily recyclable Excellent processability Transparency and optical clarity Easily coloured
Brett Martin’s polycarbonate products have a long life expectancy and are expected to last and be used for years. Many applications even help to save resources, such as light weight polycarbonate containers that reduce fuel consumption during transport, lightweight and aerodynamic automotive parts that reduce fuel consumption, and multi-wall sheets which are heat insulating and contribute to energy savings.
Plastics Industry Websites British Plastics Federation www.bpf.co.uk The Plastics Portal www.plasticseurope.org EPSE www.epse.org Plastics Industry Associations European Plastic Distributors Association www.epda.com International Association of Plastics Distributors www.iapd.org Polycarbonate Roofing Associations National Federation of Roofing contractors www.nfrc.co.uk Metal Cladding & Roofing Manufactures Association www.mcrma.co.uk


Nanogapped Au Antennas for Ultrasensitive Surface-Enhanced Infrared Absorption Spectroscopy 7, which can be designed to span the range of frequencies useful for SEIRA. We quantitatively evaluated the IR detection limit of this antenna design using mixed monolayers of 4-nitrothiophenol (4-NTP) and 4-methoxythiolphenol (4-MTP). The optimized antenna structure allows the detection of as few as ∼500 molecules of 4-NTP and ∼600 molecules of 4-MTP with a standard commercial FTIR spectrometer. This strategy offers a new platform for analyzing the IR vibrations of minute quantities of molecules and lends insight into the ultimate limit of single-molecule SEIRA detection.
Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1021/acs.nanolett.7b02736
DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.7b02736
Keeping up-to-date with research can feel impossible, with papers being published faster than you'll ever be able to read them. That's where Researcher comes in: we're simplifying discovery and making important discussions happen. With over 19,000 sources, including peer-reviewed journals, preprints, blogs, universities, podcasts and Live events across 10 research areas, you'll never miss what's important to you. It's like social media, but better. Oh, and we should mention - it's free.
Researcher displays publicly available abstracts and doesn’t host any full article content. If the content is open access, we will direct clicks from the abstracts to the publisher website and display the PDF copy on our platform. Clicks to view the full text will be directed to the publisher website, where only users with subscriptions or access through their institution are able to view the full article.


The development of large irrigation projects in Southern Alberta over 100 years ago brought secure water supplies to a previously arid landscape, establishing irrigation as an integral part of our society and environment. On October 9, 2020 the Government of Alberta and the Canada Infrastructure Bank announced an $815 million investment in partnership with eight irrigation districts to “modernize irrigation district infrastructure and increase water storage capacity”, which is now known as the Alberta Irrigation Modernization Program. The announcement projected that over 200,000 acres of new irrigated farmland would be created from this “single largest irrigation expansion in Alberta’s history”. On November 12, 2021 it was announced that two more irrigation districts and numerous additional projects were included, with the program value increased to $933 million. The presentation will cover details of the Alberta Irrigation Modernization Program and compare its projected impact to past irrigation modernization and expansion.
Speaker: Richard Phillips
Richard is the chair of Irrigating Alberta Inc., the consortium of irrigation districts participating in the Alberta Irrigation Modernization Program. He has been with the Bow River Irrigation District since 1996, initially as the district engineer, and as the general manager since 2004. He serves as vice chair of the Alberta Irrigation Districts Association and the Bow River Basin Council and chair of the Vauxhall and District Regional Water Services Commission. He has a B.Sc. in Civil Engineering from the University of Alberta and is a professional engineer. He enjoys fishing and a variety of other outdoor recreational activities.


This Evidence Check review examined the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of Chinese, Vietnamese and Arabic speaking communities in Australia in relation to cancer, its causes, screening, treatments, perceptions of susceptibility, and perceived outcomes. The review explores fear, stigma, taboos, and the role of family, as well as the evidence of effectiveness of cancer prevention, detection and treatment interventions. There are significant gaps in the evidence base.
Phillipson L, Larsen-Truong K, Jones S, Pitts L.


Sometimes people ask me: ‚Are you a doctor for crazy people?‘ I reply ‚No‘, ‘ I’m a doctor for normal people … but often people who come to me find themselves in crazy situations and circumstances‘. Most clients understand and agree that people don’t usually set out to feel bad or act in harmful or hurtful ways. Rather, problematic behavior is often an emergency solution or response, which seems better than not reacting at all. I see myself (therapeutically) as a lawyer who advocates for all my clients, particularly for their needs; I advocate for both my child clients and their parents.


Prosecuting a criminal case can take a tremendous amount of time and effort. Courts across California also have crowded dockets. For the sake of efficiency, prosecutors often arrange plea agreements with defendants. Usually, judges accept these deals without looking too deeply into them.
Even though prosecutors have considerable leverage to encourage defendants to negotiate guilty pleas, you probably should think twice before accepting a deal in three situations.
1. You did not do the crime
Prosecutors may promise you a lighter sentence in exchange for your guilty plea. Still, a guilty plea requires you to acknowledge you committed the crime. It also may brand you with a criminal record for the rest of your life. Consequently, if you did not do the crime, you may not want to say you did by accepting a plea bargain.
2. The deal does not make sense
Just as many lawyers love to write legalese, the criminal code can be technical. If you have any questions about what the language of the plea deal means, you are not ready to accept it. Likewise, if you do not fully comprehend the consequences of your plea, you do not have enough information to make the deal.
3. You have a valid defense
There is certainly nothing wrong with holding prosecutors to their burden of proving each element of the criminal offense beyond a reasonable doubt. If you have a valid defense or believe you can successfully attack the prosecution’s case, entertaining a plea deal may be premature.
While accepting a plea deal may be in your legal interests, you typically have the option of going to trial. Ultimately, only after you have explored all your options and fully understand the consequences of your plea are you ready to move forward with it.


A new paper by Zhangyuan and Haasis (2020) in Sustainability aims to construct a theoretical research framework for sustainable urban freight transport (SUFT) from the perspectives of future urban development and distribution innovations and appropriate research methods are discussed, as well. Urban freight transport plays a critical role in the promotion of sustainable and livable cities.


García AM, Moguilner S, Torquati K, García-Marco E, Herrera E, Muñoz E, Castillo E, Kleineschay T, Sedeño L & Ibáñez A (2019). How meaning unfolds in neural time: Embodied reactivations can precede multimodal semantic effects during language processing. NeuroImage 197, 439-449. doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuroimage.2019.05.002
Abstract:
Research on how the brain construes meaning during language use has prompted two conflicting accounts. According to the ‘grounded view’, word understanding involves quick reactivations of sensorimotor (embodied) experiences evoked by the stimuli, with simultaneous or later engagement of multimodal (conceptual) systems integrating information from various sensory streams. Contrariwise, for the ‘symbolic view’, this capacity depends crucially on multimodal operations, with embodied systems playing epiphenomenal roles after comprehension. To test these contradictory hypotheses, the present magnetoencephalography study assessed implicit semantic access to grammatically constrained action and non-action verbs (n = 100 per category) while measuring spatiotemporally precise signals from the primary motor cortex (M1, a core region subserving bodily movements) and the anterior temporal lobe (ATL, a putative multimodal semantic hub). Convergent evidence from sensor- and source-level analyses revealed that increased modulations for action verbs occurred earlier in M1 (∼130–190 ms) than in specific ATL hubs (∼250–410 ms). Moreover, machine-learning decoding showed that trial-by-trial classification peaks emerged faster in M1 (∼100–175 ms) than in the ATL (∼345–500 ms), with over 71% accuracy in both cases. Considering their latencies, these results challenge the ‘symbolic view’ and its implication that sensorimotor mechanisms play only secondary roles in semantic processing. Instead, our findings support the ‘grounded view’, showing that early semantic effects are critically driven by embodied reactivations and that these cannot be reduced to post-comprehension epiphenomena, even when words are individually classified. Briefly, our study offers non-trivial insights to constrain fine-grained models of language and understand how meaning unfolds in neural time.


We hear a lot about 5G technology, but its impact on our lives is limited to our smartphones and mobile service providers for many of us. However, thinking that 5G technology is solely beneficial because it allows us to read books before bed is equivalent to stating that electricity is excellent because it will enable us to read books before bed. Sure, both are positive outcomes, but the consequences of each invention are far more extensive.
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Rojas Martinez, Federico (2019)
Positional dynamics and glycosomal recruitment of developmental regulators during trypanosome differentiation. UNSPECIFIED. Abstract
Glycosomes are peroxisome-related organelles that compartmentalise the glycolytic enzymes in kinetoplastid parasites. These organelles are developmentally regulated in their number and composition, allowing metabolic adaptation to the parasite’s needs in the blood of mammalian hosts or within their arthropod vector. A protein phosphatase cascade regulates differentiation between parasite developmental forms, comprising a tyrosine phosphatase, TbPTP1, that dephosphorylates and inhibits a serine threonine phosphatase TbPIP39 that promotes differentiation. When TbPTP1 is inactivated, TbPIP39 is activated and during differentiation becomes located in glycosomes. Here we have tracked TbPIP39 recruitment to glycosomes during differentiation from bloodstream stumpy forms to procyclic forms. Detailed microscopy and live cell imaging during the synchronous transition between life cycle stages revealed that in stumpy forms, TbPIP39 is located at a periflagellar pocket site closely associated with TbVAP, that defines the flagellar pocket endoplasmic reticulum. TbPTP1 is also located at the same site in stumpy forms, as is REG9.1, a regulator of stumpy-enriched mRNAs. This site provides a molecular node for the interaction between TbPTP1 and TbPIP39. Within 30 minutes of the initiation of differentiation TbPIP39 relocates to glycosomes whereas TbPTP1 disperses to the cytosol. Overall, the study identifies a ‘stumpy regulatory nexus’ (STuRN) that co-ordinates the molecular components of life cycle signalling and glycosomal development during transmission of Trypanosoma brucei.Importance<jats:p/>African trypanosomes are parasites of sub-Saharan Africa responsible for both human and animal disease. The parasites are transmitted by tsetse flies and completion of their life cycle involves progression through several development steps. The initiation of differentiation between blood and tsetse forms is signalled by a phosphatase cascade, ultimately trafficked into peroxisome-related organelles called glycosomes that are unique to this group of organisms. Glycosomes undergo substantial remodelling of their composition and function during the differentiation step but how this is regulated is not understood. Here we identify a cytological site where the signalling molecules controlling differentiation converge before the dispersal of one of them into glycosomes. This coincides with a specialised ER site that may contribute to glycosome developmental biogenesis or regeneration. In combination, the study provides the first insight into the spatial co-ordination of signalling pathway components in trypanosomes as they undergo cell-type differentiation.


Bone broth has long been touted as a healing food by people who follow the paleo autoimmune protocol and other real food diets, but is now breaking into the trendy mainstream. For proof, look no further than Manhattan’s East Village where chef Marco Canora’s takeout window attached to his restaurant Hearth does a brisk business selling […]
While I appreciate a fancy steak as much as the next person, if given the choice I will pick a simple chuck roast any day, especially since I discovered how incredibly flavorful and tender the humble cut can be when braised with flavorful herbs. This economical cut benefits from the “low and slow” cooking method, but I […]
The autoimmune protocol variation of the paleo diet (commonly known as AIP) is a powerful healing tool that can seem overwhelming to many when they are first introduced to it. A new book, A Simple Guide to the Paleo Autoimmune Protocol, written by Eileen Laird, who has long been established as leader in the AIP movement […]


A cognitive ability test is the finest tool for recruiters to find and hire the top employees! First, using these tests to select a top-notch staff aids firms in enhancing worker performance and productivity, reducing attrition, and increasing profitability. Second, a cognitive ability test evaluates a candidate’s mental aptitude, exposing traits that might not otherwise […]Read More


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One day after former Google employee James Damore filed a National Labor Relations Board complaint, a court ruling may have already bolstered the merits of his complaint.
Damore is the former engineer whose candid email recently garnered banner headlines that saw his name and story trend on social media. After sending the missive where he claimed that gender inequality in software engineering is based on biological differences, he was fired for the memo.
On the very next day, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit ruled in favor of an NLRB order forcing Cooper Tire to rehire Anthony Runion. He was terminated over shouting racially charged insults at a group of replacement workers who were mostly black.
The NLRB administrative law judge agreed that Runion’s comments were “racist, offensive, and reprehensible.” However, he still ruled that Cooper Tire violated federal labor laws by terminating him for participating in a strike that didn’t involve violence, a “concerted activity” protected under the National Labor Relations Act.
Cooper Tire then took the matter before the Eighth Circuit to argue their rights to enforce rules against racial harassment. However, a divided appellate court claimed that the employer went too far in firing Runion.
Factual distinctions between the cases exist, but the interplay is more challenging. Damore also claims that his employer retaliated against him for an activity protected under the National Labor Relations Act. Yet, the engineer did advance stereotypes that some workers found offensive, albeit through a different medium.
Currently, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is considering an open question about protected labor activity moving into unlawful discrimination or harassment territory. They are currently conferring and consulting with their board to determine existing conflicts in an effort to “harmonize the interplay of federal EEO laws and the NLRA.”
Beyond Damore vs. Google and Runion vs. Cooper Tire rulings, labor and workplace discrimination laws seem to be on an inevitable collision course.


Background: Extracorporeal life-support as an adjunct to cardiac resuscitation has shown encouraging outcomes in patients with cardiac arrest. However, there is little evidence about the benefit of the procedure compared with conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), especially when continued for more than 10 min. We aimed to assess whether extracorporeal CPR was better than conventional CPR for patients with in-hospital cardiac arrest of cardiac origin. Methods: We did a 3-year prospective observational study on the use of extracorporeal life-support for patients aged 18-75 years with witnessed in-hospital cardiac arrest of cardiac origin undergoing CPR of more than 10 min compared with patients receiving conventional CPR. A matching process based on propensity-score was done to equalise potential prognostic factors in both groups, and to formulate a balanced 1:1 matched cohort study. The primary endpoint was survival to hospital discharge, and analysis was by intention to treat. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00173615. Findings: Of the 975 patients with in-hospital cardiac arrest events who underwent CPR for longer than 10 min, 113 were enrolled in the conventional CPR group and 59 were enrolled in the extracorporeal CPR group. Unmatched patients who underwent extracorporeal CPR had a higher survival rate to discharge (log-rank p<0.0001) and a better 1-year survival than those who received conventional CPR (log rank p=0.007). Between the propensity-score matched groups, there was still a significant difference in survival to discharge (hazard ratio [HR] 0.51, 95% CI 0.35-0.74, p<0.0001), 30-day survival (HR 0.47, 95% CI 0.28-0.77, p=0.003), and 1-year survival (HR 0.53, 95% CI 0.33-0.83, p=0.006) favouring extracorporeal CPR over conventional CPR. Interpretation: Extracorporeal CPR had a short-term and long-term survival benefit over conventional CPR in patients with in-hospital cardiac arrest of cardiac origin.


Abstract
Introduction: Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, even for patients who receive early neurointerventionist management. Areas covered: Early mechanisms of secondary brain injury precede the delayed vasospasm phase and contribute to the poor outcome. These mechanisms and their intervention are discussed, including high intracranial pressure (ICP), low cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP), acute vasospasm, disturbed cerebral autoregulation, cerebral edema, oxidative stress, seizures, microvascular damage and hyperglycemia. Erythropoietin, statins and magnesium have been particularly promising in experimental studies. Expert opinion: Multiple mechanisms, including delayed vasospasm, may contribute to cerebral ischemia and poor outcome following SAH. Treatments that simultaneously target multiple secondary injury pathways show significant potential as therapeutic agents, particularly those that attenuate vasospasm in addition to having other neuroprotective properties.
Keywords Cerebral autoregulation Cerebral edema Cerebral perfusion Intracranial pressure Vasospasm


One of the more important parts of the house that often gets ignored during spring-cleaning is the sump pump. The sump pump is a critical device dedicated towards preventing floods in people’s homes during severe rainstorms. A clean, well functioning sump pump can end up saving a homeowner a lot […]


NBC debuted a new game show in 2001 called “Fear Factor.” An instant hit, the show pitted people against one another in stunts designed to test them physically and mentally under the premise that the activities forced them to confront their ‘fears’. The voyeuristic pleasure that spurred the rise of reality television in the early 2000’s played a role in the show’s popularity, which drew on viewers’ recognition of how fear impacts thinking and behavior. Good reasons generally prompt fear’s impact – the potential for harm, even if generalized, non-specific, or irrational, motivates fear.
Fear plays a role in evangelism. In a 2018 survey, the Barna Group noted that fear occupied the number one reason self-identified Christians said they avoided evangelism. Fear’s impact on evangelism motivates this lesson, which explores Moses’ fears about the commission God gave to him in Exodus chapter three.


The study, published in
Breast Cancer Research, suggests that drinking over five cups of coffee per day may significantly reduce the risks of developing a sub type of breast cancer known as anti-oestrogen-resistant oestrogen-receptor (ER-negative) breast cancer.
The team of Swedish researchers, based at the Karolinska Institutet, compared lifestyle factors including coffee consumption between women with breast cancer and age-matched women without, finding that coffee drinkers had a lower incidence of breast cancer than women who rarely drank coffee.
“We found no evidence that coffee consumption increases the overall risk of postmenopausal breast cancer. However, a high daily intake of coffee was found to be associated with a significant decrease in ER-negative breast cancer among postmenopausal women,” wrote the researchers, led by Jingmei Li.
The authors reported that five cups of coffee per day were 57 per cent less likely to develop ER-negative breast cancer than a low consumption reference group.
Coffee and cancer
Breast cancer is a complex disease which can be sub-divided into hormone-responsive (estrogen receptor (ER) positive) and non-hormone-responsive subtypes (ER-negative) sub types.
However, Li and her colleagues noted that some evidence has suggested that there is a link between coffee consumption and breast cancer risk, according to different oestrogen receptor subtypes.
Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world, with production amounting to 7.4 billion kg in 2009/2010, according to the International Coffee Organization.
The Swedish team noted that coffee
“is interesting in the light of breast cancer aetiology because of its complex make-up of chemicals, several of which have been shown in experimental studies to have cancer risk altering potential through meaningful biological mechanisms.”
However, they added that the scientific community
“stands divided over toxicity of the beverage.”
Previous experimental and clinical studies have suggested that coffee – a complex mixture of caffeine and polyphenols – may play a dual role as both a carcinogen and a chemo-preventive agent.
The new researcher assessed the association between coffee consumption and postmenopausal breast cancer risk in a large population-based study of nearly 6,000 people.
Study details
The authors reported that coffee consumption was associated with a modest decrease in overall breast cancer risk.
When separated by breast cancer sub types, Li and her co-workers found a significant reduction in the risk of ER-negative breast cancer for ‘heavy coffee drinkers’ who consume more than five sups per day.
The researchers noted that the risk of breast cancer risk reduction associated with high coffee consumption was significantly higher for ER-negative compared to ER-positive cancer.
Li and her colleagues added that future studies should now be conducted to confirm the effects of coffee consumption with respect to breast cancer subtypes.
Source:
Breast Cancer Research 13:R49, doi:10.1186/bcr2879 “Coffee consumption modifies risk of estrogen-receptor negative breast cancer” Authors: J. Li, P. Seibold, J. Chang-Claude, D. Flesch-Janys, et al


Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS)
SERS is a phenomenon caused by interacting a laser beam with molecules adsorbed on certain surfaces, such as silver or gold, causing an enhancement of 5-6 orders of magnitude in Raman signal. One theory is that the interaction of the laser beam with irregularities on the metal surface excites conduction electrons leading to a surface plasmon resonance and a strong enhancement of electric field.
However, SERS spectra can be difficult to interpret since the normal Raman spectrum of a molecule is not necessarily the same as that same molecule adsorbed onto a SERS substrate. To try and combat this, surface-enhanced resonance Raman spectroscopy (SERRS) has been developed.
Spectrometers for SERS IsoPlane
The IsoPlane offers high signal-to-noise ratio, with high spectral resolution and imaging performance to ensure almost perfect capture of information from SERS.
The IsoPlane provides twice the light-gathering power in comparison to typical Czerny-Turner spectrographs, ensuring complete detection of SERS signal. This produces sharper images and improved resolution, ensuring all peaks within the resulting spectra are distinguished without the need for post-processing techniques.
With a unique optical design, the IsoPlane completely eliminates astigmatism across the focal plane. This offers multichannel capabilities to obtain broad range spectral information. As SERS is an analytical technique, a broad spectral range is essential to determine the chemical composition of samples.
TriVista
SERS is a technique that requires ultimate precision. The TriVista offers superb resolution, and high-quality imaging alongside stray light suppression. As SERS is used to enhance the Raman signal of a sample, any stray light present will compromise signal and effect results.
The TriVista is a set of three spectrometers comprised of the SpectraPro family spectrometers. This offers high flexibility without reducing performance, operating from 200 – 2200 nm. The TriVista is also able to capture Raman spectra as close as 5 wavenumbers from the Rayleigh line, essential for high resolution SERS.
Cameras for SERS PIXIS
SERS Raman spectroscopy in the visible light region requires high sensitivity in the 120-1100 nm range. The PIXIS offers >95% quantum efficiency over this range with reduced read noise.
To obtain all compositional information from a sample, especially when separation between surface coating and sample is required as with SERS, it is essential that long exposure experiments do not result in high dark current. The PIXIS comes equipped with deep cooling resulting in ultra-low dark current over long exposure times, ideal for low-light SERS spectroscopy.
As Raman spectroscopy of different samples requires different parameters, the PIXIS offers front-illuminated, back-illuminated and back-illuminated deep-depletion options to ensure capturing of full spectral information.
PyLoN Family
The PyLoN family is a set of cryogenically cooled CCD and InGaAs cameras, offering extremely low noise essential for the high resolution Raman spectroscopy associated with SERS. As SERS enhances signal it also enhances any noise associated, so therefore requires a CCD with low dark current levels and reduced read noise – as provided by the PyLoN family.
The PyLoN family also provides flexible readout speeds, enabling both high spectral speeds (<6600 spectra/sec) or low read noise dependent on the specific SERS sample, ranging from 50 kHz – 4 MHz.
The PyLoN IR is essential for ultra-low noise near-infrared and SWIR spectroscopy, ideal for SERS samples scattering in the spectral range of 800-2200 nm.
BLAZE
For SERS within the NIR wavelength range, the BLAZE offers high NIR sensitivity and low dark current.
The BLAZE spectroscopy camera delivers fast spectral rates to capture high throughput spectral information alongside True -100℃ cooling. This cooling provides low spectral noise, ideal for low light applications and long exposure times – two characteristics of Raman spectroscopy.


Six new speed humps are slowing traffic on the heavily traveled Walnut Hill Boulevard in the Borough of Chester Heights, Pa. Unfortunately, as is common with the use of speed humps, the traffic calming devices have created more problems. Several of the humps are too high. The asphalt has been abraded as vehicles are scraping over the top. These abrasions will eventually cause erosion of the hump. So a contractor must modify them to prevent further deterioration.
Additionally, motorists are avoiding the humps by driving into the grass. The borough is now considering either extending the hump all the way to the shoulder or placing trees or boulders on the roadside to force drivers to stay on the street. The borough engineer is concerned that these substantial obstructions might leave Chester Heights liable for damages if a motorist hits one. And, he acknowledged that a more modest shrub would likely not stand very long.
Speed humps are often considered to be inexpensive traffic calming solutions. But as Chester Heights has learned, the costs often don’t end at installation. Maintenance can be costly, especially in climates that deal with frequent snow, ice and salt on roadways. Speed humps impede the progress of emergency vehicles and snow plows. And personal vehicles can suffer damage when the humps are not constructed or installed properly.
While driver feedback signs from Radarsign™ reliably slow speeding drivers, they do not have the maintenance costs associated with speed humps. Plus, the undercarriage of automobiles is at no risk from a radar speed sign.
Charlie Robeson: Radarsign™ Co-founder & Director of Sales and Marketing


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This advisory discusses the role of peer support workers and models of peer support services that are available to assist individuals who are experiencing a crisis. Peer support services are a vital component of crisis care.View Resource
This guide presents three evidence-based practices that engage and improve outcomes for individuals with concurrent substance use and concurrent substance use disorders.View Resource
This guide reviews ways that telehealth modalities can be used to provide treatment for serious mental illness and substance use disorders among adults, distills the research into recommendations for practice, and provides examples of how these recommendations can be implemented.View Resource
This guide supports health care providers, systems, and communities seeking to prevent marijuana use by pregnant women. It describes relevant research findings, examines emerging and best practices, identifies knowledge gaps and implementation challenges, and offers useful resources.View Resource
This pocket guide was produced by the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) and the National Association of Drug Court Professionals (NADCP) guide.View Resource


The low-energy excited state of the Thorium-229 (229Th) nucleus has fascinated researchers for decades. With excitation energy of only a few eV, it is the only known nuclear isomeric state accessible to laser manipulation. This system opens up many novel applications, ranging from tests of variations of the fundamental constants to technological implementations as a nuclear clock. While the exact excitation energy of the 229Th isomer remains unknown, significant progress has been made in constraining its energy in recent months. Most importantly, all recent results place the energy between 7.5 eV to 8.5 eV. This is within the transmission band of large-band-gap VUV materials such as single fluoride crystals. It becomes hence possible to embed 229Th inside a solid-state crystal and address a large number of nuclei. This project aims to develop a readout scheme for a solid-state nuclear clock based on nuclear quadrupole resonance spectroscopy (NQRS). The interaction of the nuclear quadrupole moment with the electric field gradient of the crystal causes the splitting of the nuclear states. NQRS can be used for non-destructive readout of the nuclear state during clock operation. Moreover, the NQRS will provide valuable information about the microscopic structure of 229Th atoms doped into the crystal lattice.


For the retail, hospitality, and food service industries, the pandemic made it clear that frontline employees are critical to an organization’s success and brand perception, ultimately impacting customer satisfaction and loyalty.
But hiring and retaining talent in this sector has become challenging in today’s economy. Prospective employees expect more from their workplace, like increased pay, flexible scheduling, inclusion, and diversity.
While organizations are investing heavily in inclusion strategies, their efforts tend to prioritize their corporate workforce and customers — and often fail to reach frontline workers. So how can they integrate and embrace them in this new era of inclusion at work?
In this webinar replay, Erika Sandoval. Principal Human Insights Program Manager, UKG, shares strategies for improving the experience for all employees, particularly those on the ground. You will:


By: Christopher Sirota, CPCU What will happen to the U.S. economy in 2021 while the pandemic continues?
The COVID-19 pandemic has obviously affected the economy in many ways. A Brookings Institute report in September 2020 highlighted that the pandemic had caused demand, supply and financial shock—and nearly all at the same time. The report lists ten effects, including a 20% reduction in small business revenue from January to September 2020, low income families facing income disruption, and in 26 states, one in five households was behind in rent payment as of July 2020.
Now, a January 2021 podcast (includes transcript) from NPR's
The Indicator, has discussed three economic indicators that may reveal how the U.S. economy might be fairing in 2021.
The podcast asked the following three economic questions and considered an indicator to monitor which might help answer the question.
How might we evaluate if the government's recent economic stimulus is helping people?
Per the podcast, one way to evaluate might be to examine the survey the U.S. Census Bureau has been reportedly conducting which asks U.S. households if they have had enough food in the previous week (see the U.S. Household Pulse Survey data tool here). The podcast notes that the number of U.S. households reporting food insecurity jumped by 5 million from August to December 2020, to a total of about 27 million. So, for example, the podcast suggests that since a likely reason for the increase would be the previous stimulus money ending during that period, one could continue to monitor the survey data to see if the latest stimulus money can reduce the number households reporting food insecurity by possibly that same amount, 5 million, thus revealing significant effectiveness.
How might we evaluate if the economic damage caused by the pandemic has ended?
The podcast suggests monitoring the data for spending on services, which includes "doctor's appointments to eating in restaurants to staying in hotels to getting a haircut to attending a concert." The podcast explains that such services have been typically the hardest hit by the pandemic, so increases in spending might indicate the economy was on the mend. Per the podcast, the latest figures available are for November 2020, and the amount of spending was down by 7% compared to February 2020 (see the Bureau of Economic Analysis home page here).
How might we evaluate if the pandemic has caused potentially permanent or very long lasting damage to the economy?
The podcast suggests monitoring the Architecture Billings Index (see The American Institute of Architects web page for the index here). Why? Per the podcast, the index helps to understand the demand for architects and their firms. If the demand is low, then, according to the podcast, that typically means that the number of new office buildings and stores being constructed will be low as well. The podcast explains that currently the index has been dropping for nine straight months during the pandemic likely due to so many people working remotely and shopping online. Therefore, per the podcast, if in the upcoming months, the index does not increase, that might mean those certain pandemic habits—working from home and ordering online instead of shopping at physical stores — might remain for a long time..


Panax Ginseng, also known as Asian Ginseng or Korean Ginseng, is a root with powerful anticoagulant, antitoxic, stimulating, and adaptogenic effects.
Scientists in 2013 searched four English public search engines and found 475 relevant studies on Panax ginseng. These studies explored the effects of ginseng, which included improving physical performance, quality of life, and menopausal symptoms.
Panax ginseng continually shows promising results as a therapy for many health conditions. Below are five powerful effects of ginseng!
1. Anti-thrombotic
Ginseng for heart health
In 2007, researchers analyzed the antithrombotic and antiplatelet activities of ginseng extract in animal models. These activities help prevent arterial thrombosis and other forms of cardiovascular disease. The study found ginseng to prevent carotid arterial thrombosis in rats in a dose-dependent manner. The ginseng specifically inhibited collagen-induced platelet aggregation. These results suggest that ginseng has antithrombotic effects and can benefit individuals who are at high risks of thrombotic and cardiovascular disease.
2. Anti-depressant
Individual experiencing depression
A review in 2019 explored the antidepressant mechanisms of Panax ginseng. The herb specifically regulates the function of the HPA axis, a stress pathway between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and adrenal gland. Panax ginseng can also upregulate the expression of neurotrophic factors, substances that help control cell growth in the nervous system.
Ideally, we need a balanced stress communication system and related cell growth in our brain. The next step would be to understand the biochemical effects of Panax ginseng for clinical depression therapy in humans.
3. Combats Fatigue
Individual experiencing fatigue
A systematic review in 2018 evaluated ginseng as a therapy for fatigue. People everywhere suffer from chronic fatigue therefore herbal help is crucial. This review included 10 studies and found evidence for ginseng’s efficacy for chronic fatigue.
A systematic review in 2021 explored ginseng’s ability to treat cancer-related fatigue. The review included seven clinical studies and one retrospective study, all of which supported the safety and effectiveness of ginseng for cancer-related fatigue.
For example, one clinical study found Panax ginseng with 7% ginsenosides, given at a dose of 400 mg/day, to relieve cancer related fatigue in the majority of patients. Ginsenosides are the major constituents of ginseng, which provide medicinal value and benefits for biological activity.
Additionally, a prospective study in 2015 provided 300 mg daily of Panax ginseng to 30 patients with cancer-related fatigue. The study showed that Panax ginseng improved appetite, fatigue, and overall quality of life. However, this study was not randomized nor controlled, therefore further research is necessary.
4. A Therapy for Hypertension
A systematic review and meta-anlysis of double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trials in 2017 provided evidence for ginseng to treat hypertension. The study included nine randomized controlled studies.
Two studies specifically found Korean red ginseng to produce a significant acute reduction in systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure. Five randomized controlled trials found ginseng to produce long-term reductions in blood pressure.
This systemic review showed encouraging evidence for ginseng as a therapy for those with pre-hypertension or hypertension!
Blood pressure cuff
5. Supports Sexual Health
A systemic review in 2016 analyzed ginseng ability to manage menopausal symptoms in women. The review included ten randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials.
Overall, Korean ginseng was found to improve sexual function and reduce hot flash ratings in menopausal women. However, ginseng did not decrease hot flash frequency.
An earlier placebo-controlled, double blind crossover clinical study in 2010 assessed ginseng for sexual function. Thirty-two menopausal women participated in the study and received ginseng or a placebo before switching to the alternative group after a two-week washout period. The participants rated their sexual function on an index and questionnaire.
The scientists found ginseng to significantly improve sexual function, specifically sexual arousal. The study concluded that oral ginseng has potential as an alternative therapy for sexual health in menopausal women.
And what about safety?
While the above effects are impressive, what about the safety of ginseng? Many pharmaceuticals carry a long list of side effects, so do Chinese herbs carry the same?
A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial across multiple centers in 2018 assessed the safety and tolerability of ginseng in healthy adults. One thousand participants took 2 grams of ginseng or a placebo for 24 weeks. The participants were assessed on potential adverse effects such as headache, diarrhea, and dizziness.
Throughout the testing period, no significant abnormal changes were noted in laboratory data, vitals, and anthropometric findings. Additionally, no significant differences in side effects were found between the two groups.
This study supports the safety and tolerability of daily ginseng intake.


Objective: The aim of the study is to investigate psychometric features of Distresss Interolerance Index (DII), which was developed to identify the golden standard of distress tolerance concept, and Cognitive-Behavioral Avoidance Scale (CBAS), which assesses avoidance multidimensionally, in a university students population. Methods: The study sample consists of 610 undergraduate students from various departments in Hacettepe and Uludag University (434 female, 71.4%; 176 male, 28.6%). Test-retest reliability was examined in a sample of 92 people. In addition to DII and CBAS, Positive and Negative Affect Scale (PANAS), Penn State Worry Questionnaire (PSWQ), Coping with Stress Scale (CSS), Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (CERQ), Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was also applied. Construct validity of the scales was tested via factor analysis, Cronbach's alpha coefficients and test-retest correlations were calculated to check for reliability, and Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to investigate criterion-related validity. Results: One factor solution was suitable for DII as also recommended in the original form and reliability of the index was estimated as 0.92. Test-retest reliability was 0.86. The analysis for criterion-related validity revealed theoretically expected significant correlations between DII and BDI, PNAS, BSI and PSWQ, ranging from -0.25 to 0.60. Factor analysis for construct validity of CBAS revealed a four factor solution consistent with the original form. Two items in the original form were excluded from the Turkish version. Reliability coefficient was 0.92 for the overall scale and varied between 0.72 and 0.88 for the subscales. Test-retest reliability varied between 0.60 and 0.90. Analysis for criterion-related validity showed expected and significant correlations varying between -0.10 and 0.44 for CBAS subscales and CERQ, CSS subscales and PSWQ, BDI and BSI overall scores. Conclusion: The findings of this study shows that DII and CBAS are valid and reliable scales. This study also provided further evidence to the validity and utility of the DII.


Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 made a near full recovery from the Coronavirus pandemic within just a year. By the summer of 2021, Australian investors were already riding into new all-time highs. There has never been a better time for options investing in Australia.
As a major financial center and G20 member, there are many opportunities and reasons why Australians should consider options trading. And there are well over a dozen online stock brokers to choose from.
We saw the need for a clear guide on options trading in Australia: to summarize its leading brokers, their merits, and where they fall short.
This article delves into our top five picks and why. Let’s get to it. What Makes a Good Broker for Options Trading in Australia?
Options brokers in Australia keep up with the global standards set by the US, the world’s most active financial marketplace. Good brokers in Australia have these seven virtues in common:
Low account or trading minimums Competitive and transparent fees Many product options Multiple trading and analytic tools Support for news alerts Ample learning material The ability to trade real options and not CFDs on options (more about it on the differences between CFDs vs real shares)
Not every options broker will make our list, but it helps us determine the truly
best brokers out there. The Best Options Brokers in Australia Interactive Brokers | The globe’s award-winning default broker The globe’s award-winning default broker
With a history spanning more than 40 years, IBKR remains one of the most trustworthy brokers available and is unofficially the globe’s default broker, including Australia. For options, there is a per contract fee going up to USD 0.65 for US options and up to AUD 2.20 inclusive of GST tax. Interactive Brokers also launched IBKR GlobalTrader, a modern mobile trading app for options, stocks, and ETFs, ideal for novice investors.
Saxo Markets | Premium, higher-cost broker delivering exceptional research
A subsidiary of Danish online broker Saxo Bank, Saxo Markets has prepared an incredible offering for residents of Australia inclusive of listed options, forex options, commodities, futures, and more. They provide a tiered pricing system that balances monthly fees and trading commissions.
Tastyworks | Excellent discount broker, but US-focused
Tastyworks stands out as an up-and-coming options broker focusing on the retail trader who truly wants to hone their craft. They provide options trading as well as futures, stocks, indices, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies, while keeping to USD 1 per options contract (0 to close).
TradeStation | Celebrated online broker catering to active traders
TradeStation International, the UK counterpart to the US’ celebrated original–TradeStation–remains a top choice for active options traders in Australia. They charge a competitive USD 0.60 per contract plus a flat fee of USD 5 per trade.
1# Interactive Brokers IB at a glance
Subsidiary to the Nasdaq-listed IBKR, Interactive Brokers in Australia echoes its parent’s world-leading strength, offering, and product range–options included. They earned the trust of options traders and the top spot on our list of the best options brokers in Australia through their commitment to global access and risk management.
The platform serves both institutions and individuals, beginners and professionals, by marrying global access to nearly all available asset classes–options included–with an accessible web platform and streamlined mobile apps. In particular, IBKR GlobalTrader leads the global industry in simplified stock and options, including Australia.
They charge a leading commission rate of USD 0.65 per contract for American markets or up to AUD 2.20 for Australian markets. They provide zero account opening fees and no minimum activity fees.
Interested? Read our comprehensive IBKR review.
2# Saxo Markets Saxo at a glance
Our runner-up, Saxo Bank is a deeply research-oriented broker with a track record, like IBKR, spanning decades. They cater to all levels of experience with a variety of different platforms, but their focus on premium perks and design works best for intermediate to advanced options traders.
We find that SaxoTraderGO will work best for most traders, while those who operate professionally or daily could do even better with SaxoTraderPRO. The former is an award-winning platform that blends the sophistication of desktop-based trading alongside a powerful mobile app for 24/7 coverage.
Their tiered pricing structure feels somewhat convoluted with three possible options, but fortunately, they explain the key details well. The basic “Classic” choice requires a minimum of AUD 1,000 and charges USD 3 per US stock option contract and AUD 5 per Australian contract. The “VIP” offering charges USD 0.8 and AUD 1 respectively.
3# Tastyworks Tastyworks at a glance
Based in the US, Tastyworks is a relatively new options trading firm that caters to “do-it-yourself” traders who avoid algorithms or robo-advisors. They offer access to stocks, options, futures, indices, commodities, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies. In fact, their trading platform was built by the same engineers who devised TD Ameritrade’s “thinkorswim.”
Tastyworks provides a comprehensive trading platform across both desktop and mobile interfaces. However, there is a learning curve wherein beginners should learn the basics of delta, gamma, and so on, before diving into Tastyworks. Once you’re past that, they allow you to follow leading or popular options traders.
For stock options, they charge USD 1 per contract for opening a position and nothing to close. They also offer complete transparency by detailing each possible fee. They are competitive but lack the research and educational material of IBKR–and access to Australian stock options.
4# TradeStation International TradeStation at a glance
Tradestation International is the UK counterpart to the well-known US broker lauded for providing a fantastic trading experience. Tradestation has earned titles such as “Broker of the Year 2021” by TradingView and a “Top 5” acknowledgment for options brokers by “Investor’s Business Daily.”
TradeStation International focuses on more volatile asset classes for active traders, including options, futures, IPOs, and bonds. While they’re good enough to be considered one of Australia’s best options brokers, we’d have to rank them 4th on our list due to their higher fees and lack of access to ASX stock options. They charge USD 0.60 per option contract
plus USD 5 flat per trade.
They make it up, partially, with built-in real-time market data, no minimum funding requirement, and OptionStation Pro–an incredible piece of technology for trading options in Australia. It has features such as building options chains, analyzing options strategies, and providing instant execution. We suggest TradeStation International if you want to focus on US-based options and futures.
5# Tiger Brokers Tiger Brokers at a glance
Tiger Brokers, one of Asia’s most popular discount brokers for individual and institutional investors, is our wildcard choice for options trading in Australia. Like TradeStation International, it does not provide access to Australian stock options–instead only options for the US or Hong Kong markets.
Its pricing is competitive at USD 0.65 per contract for US stock options, and slightly more expensive for Hong Kong stock options at 0.2% of trade value. We appreciate how the broker acknowledges this higher expense with the tag “Fair.”
Tiger Brokers focuses on execution and ease of trading, and the platform succeeds with both. In addition, it serves not just as a gateway for options trading in Australia, but as an international mutual fund broker for investors who deposit at least USD 100. This is an ideal choice for active traders who don’t necessarily need research, and like to keep their cash deposits in mutual funds instead.
The bottom line
Options trading is alive and well in Australia, with multiple world-leading providers and low fees. Not all options brokers permit trading on the ASX, but many traders may wish to operate solely with the world’s reserve currency–the US dollar. We’ve narrowed down the selection to five leading choices based on our criteria.
Each of our recommended options brokers in Australia excels at certain aspects. Do you specifically want to focus on US options and futures? Tastyworks. Do you prefer an established, global platform known for its reliability and low fees? IBKR.Need more recommendations?
Check out our platform finder.
Other FAQs Can you buy options in Australia?
Absolutely! Australia is one of the world’s leading economies and financial centers. However, options brokers are often limited to following US-based stocks or futures.
What is an options broker?
Usually related to “full-service brokers” that try to provide all the necessary tools for an intermediate or professional trader, an options broker is an online intermediary between you and the exchanges that enables the trading of options. The best options brokers in Australia offer stock options, futures, and options on futures.
Can you trade options on IG?
No, you cannot trade real options on IG. With IG, you’ll trade options using CFDs, which are contracts for differences and give you indirect exposure to options (more about it on the differences between CFDs vs real shares).
How do you open an options trading account?
While the process changes per options broker, it remains relatively straightforward. Simply be ready to provide digital copies of official IDs (i.e., passport, driving license, etc.) and proof of address, and transfer an opening sum through ACH or wire, for example. The options broker, like IBKR, may want to verify your age as well.
How do you buy options?
Thanks to advances in web and mobile trading platforms, trading options remains largely intuitive. Almost all mobile apps guide you through the purchase (opening) process and the selling (closing) process. Web platforms may have a learning curve and require an introductory tutorial. This is the case for some users who use IBKR, for example.
However, we recommend at least a beginner options course to walk you through calls, puts, strategies, opening, closing, and margin trading.
What are the risks of buying, trading, and selling options?
Since options trading almost always includes the use of margin or borrowed funds, the risks generally are much greater than trading stocks or commodities with only the cash you own. This is referred to as leverage. Again, we recommend completing a basic course in options trading, which is provided by brokers like IBKR or Saxo Markets.


What is it?
Amid the era of endless zoom meetings and classes we currently endure, we are unable to physically gather together as we would annually. Kole aku kole mai is our attempt to create a safe space where we can converse and share what is happening in our communities globally. What does Kole aku kole mai mean? In ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, Kole is commonly known as a tasty and desirable reef fish. However, when reduplicated,
kolekole is an informal talk story. With its directionals, Kole aku kole mai becomes a reciprocation of stories we share amongst each other! Participants and Speakers: In this new series so far, we hosted a total of three webinars! We were honored to host friends Cynthia Ford and Rosa Laucci and team from the Tolowa De-ni’ nation. They spoke to their Indigenous marine stewardship practices and how they utilize ancestral knowledge to inform their Harvest Title and how they are building enforcement capacity.
In our second webinar , we were joined by the wonderful Tamara Archie of Qwelminte Secwepemc in British Columbia. Our dear Tamara shared
how their various nations navigate “walking in two worlds,” and protect natural resources through the modernity of western science with the guidance of their traditional practices. She spoke to the importance of the way we recognize one another and how this plays a vital role in our advancement into the future.
Most recently, prominent land and water advocates and founders of the Indigenous World Forum on Water and Peace, Darlene Sanderson and Mona Polacca left our network gathering inspired to further their mission leading various Indigenous communities in exercising sovereignty through water declarations. As Indigenous peoples, we understand the vitality of our water sources in our daily and spiritual existence. This however is not understood by many who continuously over-exploit and threaten the existence and quality of our sacred sources that give us life. These declarations are proclaimed in the nationʻs native tongue and express that there is no separation between ourselves and wai and that its perpetual existence and purity is necessary for future generations.
Their empowering experiences with the Tsilhqot’in Nation Water Declaration they shared have challenged our network to envision a water declaration of our own that would demonstrate our pilina to wai. Without water, there is no life! #Olaikawai #Shutdownredhill
Kole aku kole mai serves as a powerful reminder to us that we are not alone in our experiences. We are resilient and continue to stand in unity with our Indigenous communities across our beloved honua. Stay in touch with our monthly webinars to hear more from friends and those we are connected to along the way!
View past Kole aku kole mai episodes here: Kole Aku Kole Mai A hiki i ke aloha ʻāina hope loa, Kalehuakea Kelling Kalehuakea is a soon-to-be graduate of Political Science and ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi and a first-year Masterʻs candidate in Political Science from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. Her roots to ʻāina in Hawaiʻi stem from her various ʻohana experiences on kuleana lands in ʻIolekaʻa and throughout her primary education as a graduate from Ke Kula ʻo Samuel M Kamakau, a PreK-12 Hawaiian medium charter school. Kalehuakea continues to cultivate her aloha to ʻāina in her work with Kuhiawaho and academic areas of interest that include but is not limited to: cultural resource management, ʻike and ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, and demilitarization.


A copy of this work was available on the public web and has been preserved in the Wayback Machine. The capture dates from 2019; you can also visit the original URL.The file type is
application/pdf.
Distributed systems are notorious for harboring subtle bugs. Verification can, in principle, eliminate these bugs, but it has historically been difficult to apply at full-program scale, much less distributed system scale. We describe a methodology for building practical and provably correct distributed systems based on a unique blend of temporal logic of actions-style state-machine refinement and Hoare-logic verification. We demonstrate the methodology on a complex implementation of adoi:10.1145/3068608 fatcat:tnwzkuonwvahterueljh4axakm


Abstract:
Threshold regression models are useful for identifying subgroups with heterogenous parameters. The conventional threshold regression models split the sample based on a single and observed threshold variable, which enforces the threshold point to be the same for all subgroups of population. To relax this rigid assumption, we consider a more flexible single-index threshold model in the quantile regression setup, where the sample is split based on a single index, an unknown linear combination of predictors. To account for the complication in the asymptotic theory caused by the nonregularity of the model, we propose a smoothed estimator for the regression coefficients and index parameters, and establish its asymptotic properties at a single quantile as well as for the quantile process. Furthermore, we propose a Wald-type test and a mixed-bootstrap procedure for inference on the index parameters.


Risk Assessment in Human Rights Defense Methodological Guide from the Psychosocial Approach
Discussing security within the framework of human rights defense has become a priority: it is among the most important challenges due to the complexity of the contexts in which defenders carry out their work and the numerous risks they face within the structure of sociopolitical violence. This is why the different organizations that work on the issue have used their experiences to develop methodologies which make it possible to analyze the contexts, risks, and situations that people and groups are exposed to when contributing to social transformation through their work.
This
guide’s content is based on international methodologies from organizations such as Protection International and Front Line Defenders, among others. Accordingly, we have incorporated some of these tools, complementing them with the accompaniment model proposed by Aluna and adapting them to the specificities of the contexts and the political subjects whom we accompany.
Through the tools we share, we aim to support groups, organizations, communities, and individuals who—amid diverse economic, political, and cultural disputes—are at risk for having sought out alternatives to liberation through their social struggles in the face of the oppression strategies imposed by power dynamics that attack people’s dignity.
This arrangement and publication were completed thanks to funding from the World Day of Prayer, Open Society Foundations, the Civil Peace Service and the Norwegian Human Rights Fund. We would like to express special thanks to all of them. We also appreciate Bread for the World, Hispanics in Philanthropy, and Misereor for contributing to the development of Aluna’s work.


Despite the rollout of vaccines and the beginnings of economic recovery, many Compass parents struggled to find stable work. The industries many had previously worked in, such as tourism and hospitality, were greatly affected by the pandemic and slow to return to pre-pandemic levels of operation, offering limited opportunities and fewer work hours.
To better support parents in finding sustainable work with livable wages, Compass launched a new workforce development initiative called Compass Workforce Development & Resources, or C-WORK, in January of 2021, within Compass Family Resource Center. Dedicated workforce case managers help participants address and remove barriers to employment, identify employment pathways, connect with training providers and assist our client parents to ultimately secure quality employment.
Compass’ comprehensive workforce programming includes one-on-one case management, career coaching and a series of virtual workshops focused on topics such as job applications, soft skills, resume building, interview preparation and financial empowerment. Bilingual workforce case managers also host weekly virtual drop-in hours during which participants can receive support in their job search and address any barriers they are facing. Additionally, C-WORK collaborates with local organizations and businesses to connect Compass families with job opportunities and resources through virtual jobs fairs, career panels, workshops and more.
A major challenge that many Compass families face in finding employment is citizenship status. Many families are undocumented and do not qualify for employment in the traditional workplace. Compass is exploring ways to support undocumented families in finding stable work via various creative strategies, such as helping parents acquire Right to Work documents or supporting alternative employment pathways, such as entrepreneurship.
C-WORK Equity Pilot for Black Families
In June 2021, Compass was awarded a $300,000 grant from San Francisco’s Office of Employment and Workforce Development to provide workforce development services and address disparities in employment and housing for low-income Black families in San Francisco. According to the 2019 Point-in-Time Count of homeless individuals in San Francisco, despite comprising only 6% of the overall population, Black or African Americans made up 37% of those identified as homeless. The C-WORK Equity Pilot for Black Families aims to remove barriers to employment and increase wages for San Francisco’s Black families by hiring staff with deep connections to Black communities to provide significant focused outreach and support to Black community members, ensure culturally-responsive workforce development services, and build relationships with Black-owned businesses.


We know our processes.
We have trained our employees. We monitor the process outputs. We have a predictable process. Why will Steph Curry improve his processes? He knows that if he and his team remain the same that they will miss their goals. Process improvement should be driven by business strategy. However, many companies have not identified their core processes and how they can impact results. If your core processes aren’t leading towards achieving the organization’s strategic goals, it’s time to take a look at them. We can help build a culture of continuous improvement in your organization. Let's talk.